Resolutions

The idea of being “back to reality” is brutal. Full work weeks, no national holidays in sight, and biting cold winds that could make you feel as though you’re living in Antarctica.

With the “new” year upon us, the subject of resolutions inevitably comes up. And the two words that generally follow “resolution” are diet and exercise. Evil Siamese twins. I tend to be a fan of the latter rather than the former.

I don’t make resolutions. Mostly because I’m already perfect … JOKE! But seriously, I don’t. The reason is not for the lack of needing it but the reason for it.

Like any good little Catholic girl, I knew from a young age that during Lent you’re supposed to “give up” something for 40 days. Just like a resolution, but for the church … kinda. Regardless, this practice asks you to remove something (in most cases, i.e. chocolate, cursing, sex, etc) from your life to become a better, more fulfilled person. The notion of removing something from your life seems odd. The temptation remains and continues to be a part of your life after the forty days.

The same is true with New Years resolutions. Why remove something from your life, such as food with a diet, instead of enriching your life. Instead of saying “I’m never eating pizza again,” why not say, “I’m going to learn how to cook so that I can make healthier pizza for myself.” Instead of saying, “I’m through with eating desserts,” why not say, “I’m going to learn how to eat good portions of dessert AND fruits in vegetables.”

In 2010 we shouldn’t be scoffing what we cannot do but instead what we CAN do. Life is about growing, not shrinking in our knowledge. Exercise more, learn more about where your food comes from, and love more. Love yourself AND the bounties that surround you, instead of diminishing yourself.

Ok, motivational shit off. In the end just love who you are, who you’re with, and the possibilities of the new year.